The reason people love going out to the Dry Tortugas is because of the complete lack of “civilized” living. There is no AC, electricity, or running water on the islands. They are basically nature at its purest with a massive historic fort in the center. Even with the fort (Fort Jefferson) on the islands, the Dry Tortugas have retained their isolated and remote identity as an island paradise abundant with vibrant and exotic marine life. In fact, the fort adds to the allure of the islands, reminding visitors of the historic role the Dry Tortugas once had in United States history. The guided tour that visitors receive provides information about the history, design and legends of the massive fort.
Camping out on the islands is a fantastic option that visitors to the islands are often unaware of or are too unsure of to try out. This is by far the most enjoyable way to experience the islands. This is the best way for you to really get an idea of what it feels like to live on such an isolated island in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico and located 70 miles from civilization. After the boats leave at 3PM, the islands belong to you, your fellow campers, and the fascinating wildlife that inhabit the islands and their surrounding waters. While out on your own in the Dry Tortugas, campers are able to enjoy all the great wildlife the islands have to offer, swimming out in the crystal clear waters or snorkeling out in the coral reef.
The most exciting part about camping in the Tortugas is the fact that it is a complete “primitive” camping experience. This means that campers have to bring all their food and water, restrooms are limited to composting toilets, and all trash must be taken back with the campers.
To go on a camping trip on the Tortugas, you simply need to book with one of the ferries that makes regular daily trips out to the islands. While booking, make sure you let the company know that you want to be camping and how many nights you want to stay. Usually, there is a 3 night maximum and each ferry only transports 6 campers per day. Upon reaching the Dry Tortugas, campers will be able to enjoy all the amenities provided by the ferries (such as snorkeling gear and lunch) but once the ferry departs on the first day of the campers’ trip, the campers are on their own (that is, until their return trip). The camp grounds include 11 camping sites on the island of Garden Key (where the fort is located) and each site can accommodate six people (or three tents). These sites are first-come, first-served, but the islands provide an alternate “overflow” campground to accommodate any extra campers (anywhere from 10 to 40 people can camp in the overflow area).
People who love being close to nature will absolutely love the Dry Tortugas camping! No one ever seems to complain about the Dry Tortugas. They are a beautiful and pristine island environment that impresses and amazes its guests. Camping in a tiny island in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico is unlike any other camping you have ever done and if you feel up for the adventure and the relaxing opportunity, call the Dry Tortugas ferries (Sunny Days or Yankee Freedom) and make sure you get your spot on their boat to get to the Dry Tortugas!
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